Frequently Asked Questions
What is femoroacetabular impingement?
Femoroacetabular impingement, or FAI, occurs when the shape of the hip ball or socket causes pinching during movement. This can irritate the hip joint and labrum. It often causes groin pain with sports, squatting, or prolonged sitting.
What causes femoroacetabular impingement?
FAI is related to the shape of the hip bones and how they move together. Repetitive hip flexion, rotation, or high-level sports can bring out symptoms. Some people have FAI anatomy but no pain.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms include deep groin pain, hip stiffness, clicking, or pain with squatting and pivoting. Pain may worsen with sitting or cutting movements. Some athletes notice reduced hip motion or performance.
How is it treated?
Treatment often starts with physical therapy, activity modification, and improving hip and core strength. Anti-inflammatory medications or injections may help selected patients. Surgery may be considered if symptoms persist and imaging matches the exam.
When can I return to sports?
Return depends on pain control, hip motion, strength, and sport demands. Many athletes improve over several weeks to months with rehab. If surgery is needed, return to sport often takes several months.